What is Shepherd's Chapel?

Definition and Overview

Shepherd’s Chapel is a Christian teaching ministry founded by the late Arnold Murray and based in Gravette, Arkansas. It is best known for its televised broadcasts of in-depth Bible study, presented in verse-by-verse format. While the ministry presents itself as a Christian fellowship, it has drawn widespread attention because of certain distinctive doctrinal positions that differ from many mainstream evangelical teachings. Its broadcasts continue to run internationally, reaching viewers through satellite and various media platforms.

Foundational History

The roots of Shepherd’s Chapel extend to Arnold Murray’s study of Scripture, which he began broadcasting by radio in the mid-20th century before transitioning to television. Over time, the ministry grew, developed its own printing press, and established a broadcast station covering large regions. According to the ministry, the goal has been to equip believers with deeper knowledge of Scripture, often by teaching the Bible in a line-by-line expository manner.

Unique Doctrinal Emphases

1. Serpent Seed Teaching

One of the hallmark distinctions is the “serpent seed” or “Kenite” doctrine, which teaches that the sin in Eden (Genesis 3) produced a literal seed line from the serpent. However, most conservative scholars note that Genesis 4:1 clearly records Adam as the father of Cain, stating, “Adam had relations with his wife Eve, and she conceived and gave birth to Cain…” which contradicts the idea of another paternal line. The broader context of Scripture underscores that the original sin stemmed from disobedience rather than any literal union with the serpent (cf. Romans 5:12).

2. Interpretation of End Times

Shepherd’s Chapel is often critical of the popular concept of a pre-tribulation rapture, emphasizing instead a belief that believers will face tribulation and must be prepared. While many evangelical commentators agree that believers should remain spiritually vigilant (cf. Matthew 24:42–44), there remains debate about the precise timing of events described in 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17 and Revelation. Shepherd’s Chapel’s perspective is distinctive but sits outside the mainstream consensus of some evangelical circles.

3. Use of Hebrew and Greek Lexicons

Arnold Murray frequently consulted the Strong’s Concordance and other language tools for interpretational insights. While language study can indeed enrich understanding (cf. Nehemiah 8:8: “They read from the Book of the Law of God, translating and giving the meaning so that the people could understand what was read.”), the challenge lies in balancing word studies with the broader themes and context of Scripture to maintain orthodoxy and consistency.

Method of Bible Study

The core of Shepherd’s Chapel’s method involves verse-by-verse reading and commentary. This approach, in principle, honors the biblical command to handle Scripture diligently (2 Timothy 2:15); however, teachers and listeners must ensure that the interpretation aligns with the entirety of biblical revelation, comparing Scripture with Scripture (cf. Acts 17:11, where the Bereans “examined the Scriptures every day”).

Association with Mainstream Christianity

Though Shepherd’s Chapel professes many central Christian teachings, including a high regard for Scripture, several of its positions remain controversial among mainstream conservative believers. Discussions typically center on whether the ministry’s teachings might lead adherents toward interpretations unsupported by the weight of biblical or historical evidence.

Points of Caution and Biblical Evaluation

1. Scriptural Context

The Berean principle (Acts 17:11) encourages believers to search the Scriptures daily, verifying teachings. The whole of Scripture should interpret individual verses. Where Shepherd’s Chapel teachings depart from widely affirmed orthodox interpretations, it is advisable to compare their conclusions with other reputable Christian scholarship.

2. Historicity and Orthodoxy

Throughout church history, core doctrines—like the nature of Christ, salvation by faith through grace, and the Trinity—have been carefully affirmed through councils, creeds, and scholarly study (e.g., John 1:1–14 for the divine nature of Christ, Ephesians 2:8–9 for salvation by grace). Believers should be attentive to potential deviations from these historically tested beliefs.

3. Balancing Literal and Figurative Interpretations

In Scripture, certain accounts are clearly literal and supported by historical, archaeological, and geographical data (e.g., the existence of Jericho’s walls partially corroborated by excavations, or the ancient cities demonstrated in Genesis), while other passages employ figurative language (cf. Revelation’s symbolism). Misapplication of figurative or literal interpretation can lead to doctrinal error.

Controversies and Responses

1. Nature of Sin and Evil

The traditional Christian consensus sees evil’s entry into the world as an act of disobedience against God’s command (Genesis 3:6). Shepherd’s Chapel’s emphasis on the serpent seed model is often criticized for lack of direct scriptural endorsement. Scripture consistently points to humanity’s universal fall in Adam (Romans 5:12–14).

2. Eschatological Speculations

Controversy arises where Shepherd’s Chapel offers unique timelines or speculative details about the Antichrist and tribulation. While Scripture encourages watchfulness (Luke 21:36), it also advises avoiding excessive speculation that can overshadow the core message of redemption (Titus 2:13–14).

3. Fellowship with Other Believers

Many Christian ministers and biblical scholars have recommended believers exercise discernment when engaging with Shepherd’s Chapel teachings. While unity in Christ remains a biblical ideal (Ephesians 4:3–6), unity should not require acceptance of teachings seen as divergent from essential truths (Romans 16:17–18).

Practical Considerations for Studying Their Teachings

• Compare Doctrine with Scripture: Always cross-reference verses within their context.

• Consult Multiple Sources: Look to reputable Bible commentaries, church history, and established evangelical scholarship for a well-rounded perspective.

• Pray for Discernment: James 1:5 promises, “If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to him.” Seeking divine guidance ensures teaching is properly understood and applied.

• Engage in Faithful Community: Regular fellowship with grounded believers and local church participation helps guard against interpretational extremes (Hebrews 10:25).

Conclusion

Shepherd’s Chapel stands out for its verse-by-verse teaching approach and its distinctive doctrines, particularly the serpent seed teaching and its perspectives on end-time events. While it professes belief in many central Christian convictions, its unique interpretations prompt widespread caution within the broader conservative Christian community. Upholding the principle that “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for instruction” (2 Timothy 3:16), believers are encouraged to continually test all teachings (1 John 4:1), ensuring they align with what the broader testimony of Scripture reveals about God, salvation, and the core doctrines of the faith.